There is no better way to bring South Africans together than through food. Our cuisine tells the story of our diversity and rich heritage. Every dish has a unique story and origin which contributes to our distinctive culture. As a proudly South African product, Heritage Day provides the opportunity for us to share the pride we have in our traditional meals #MadeWithKindness. We’ve compiled a few of our favourite traditional Mzansi meals for you to try with a little Huletts sweetness!

If you’re looking for a South African classic, amagwinya are the way to go. Amagwinya are enjoyed by many South African cultures and has many names like magwinya, vetkoek and fat cakes. As a Setswana favourite, they are traditionally enjoyed with polony, cheese and achar. However, they are versatile and can even be enjoyed with a dusting of Huletts Castor or Icing Sugar.

Try the recipe here: https://www.hulettssugar.co.za/recipe/amagwinya/

In the mood for something lighter but equally delicious? Have a go at thophi – a traditional Venda pumpkin porridge that can also be enjoyed for breakfast! Thophi is originally made using green squash but this can be substituted with pumpkin. Top with some Huletts White Sugar for that extra “Ncahh!”.

Try the recipe here: https://www.hulettssugar.co.za/recipe/thophi/

When you’re in need of a good snack that impresses, try this recipe! Mogwapa is a Sepedi term for biltong. The perfect blend of Huletts SunSweet Brown Sugar and spices will be the hit at any party, on a road trip or home.

Try the recipe here: https://www.hulettssugar.co.za/recipe/mogwapa

Xigugu is a traditional Tsonga spread made of ground-roasted corn and peanuts. It’s dark in colour but glossy and subtly sweet. It is often given as a special gift and symbol of love from a bride to her groom (and it’s YUM!). 

Try the recipe here: https://www.hulettssugar.co.za/recipe/xigugu/

Bobotie – a warm and comforting Cape Malay dish with a wonderful mix of flavours. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something wholesome and savoury with a touch of sweetness and spice.

Try the recipe here: https://www.hulettssugar.co.za/recipe/Bobotie/

When it comes to a hearty meal, amadombolo with braised oxtail is your best bet. Amadombolo is popular in the Zulu culture. Steaming it on top of a stew instead of preparing it separately allows for these dumplings to absorb all the flavours. It’s warm and hearty, making it an ideal meal to break bread with your loved ones. Mmmnandi!

Try the recipe here: https://www.hulettssugar.co.za/recipe/amadombolo/ 

South African celebrations and ceremonies are not complete without our unique refreshments.

Gemer (ginger beer) is often prepared ahead of big Sesotho occasions and served together with dikuku (scones). But you don’t have to wait for a special occasion to serve it to your family and friends, enjoy it any time!

Try the recipe here: https://www.hulettssugar.co.za/recipe/dikuku-le-gemer/

For any beer-lovers out there, umqombothi is worth trying. It’s a traditional beer, that is popular in the Xhosa culture. It is made from a combination of maize meal, crushed corn malt, crushed sorghum malt, water, sugar and yeast.Try the recipe here: https://www.hulettssugar.co.za/recipe/Umqombothi/

For something non-alcoholic, have you tried amahewu? This Ndebele food drink is maize-based, fermented and a trusted source of energy among many of the Chewa/Nyanja, Shona, Nama Khoikhoi and Damara, Sotho, Tswana, and Nguni people.Try the recipe here: https://www.hulettssugar.co.za/recipe/amahewu/

Amasi, is also a fermented drink that is indigenous to South Africa and Lesotho. Its texture and taste is similar to cottage cheese or plain yoghurt. Pour it over uphuthu for a delicious and filling co”mmm”bination!

Try the recipe here: https://www.hulettssugar.co.za/recipe/amasi/

South African desserts are just as sweet as our people and our customs. Treat your friends and family with a truly scrumptious traditional Afrikaans baked milk tart. This recipe is sure to get a stamp of approval from any Ouma or Tannie! 

Try the recipe here: https://www.hulettssugar.co.za/recipe/milk-tart/

Indulge in gulab jamun – a milk-solid-based sweet treat that is deep-fried and is often enjoyed during special occasions and enjoyed throughout the Indian community. The South African method of preparation is slightly different from the method in India but it is equally as delicious!

Try the recipe here: https://www.hulettssugar.co.za/recipe/Gulab-Jamun/

If you love these recipes as much as we do, celebrate Heritage month with us by entering our Heritage competition to stand a chance to WIN R1000.

Find out how to enter: Here!